Introduction to Technology - Chapter 1

Introduction to the World of Technology - Chapter 1

• A computer is a programmable, electronic device.
• It accepts data, performs operations on it, presents results, and stores data/results.
• The four primary operations are input, processing, output, and storage.
• Input: Entering data into the computer.
• Processing: Performing operations on the data.
• Output: Presenting the results.
• Storage: Saving data, programs, or output for future use.

What is a Computer and What Does it Do?

• Computers are programmable and follow instructions (the program).
• The program dictates the tasks the computer performs.
• Usefulness of barcode example at supermarket:
  • Input: Item scanned.
  • Processing: Description and price retrieved.
  • Output: Information displayed on register and printed on receipt.
  • Storage: Inventory, ordering, and sales records updated.

IPOS Cycle/Information Processing Cycle

• Input, processing, output, and storage are sometimes referred to as the IPOS cycle.
• Today's computers commonly perform communication functions, such as internet access, database retrieval or email.
• Communications is a fifth, often considered primary, computer operation.

Data vs. Information

• Data is raw fact or set of facts.
  • Examples: Words in a letter, budget numbers, images in a photo etc.
• Data processed into meaningful form becomes information
• Information is frequently generated to answer questions.

Computer Generations

• This is a topic for discussion.

Hardware

• Hardware are the physical parts of a computer.
• Hardware devices exist for each computer operation described.

Input Devices

• Devices to input data: Keyboard, mouse, microphone, scanners, digital camera, stylus, touchpads, touchscreens, fingerprint readers, and gaming controllers.

Processing Devices

• The Central Processing Unit (CPU) processes calculations and controls computer operations.
• Also involved in processing is memory and other processing units like the GPU.

Storage Devices

• Used to store data, programs, and output.
• Examples: Hard drives, USB flash drives, CDs, DVDs and memory cards.

Output Devices

• Devices to present results: Monitors, printers, speakers, headphones, and data projectors

Communication Devices

• Modems (connect to the internet), network adapters (connect to computer networks), and routers (create networks).

Software

• Software are the programs telling the computer what to do.
• Software frequently downloaded from the internet.
• Can be installed onto the computer; or accessed directly from the internet.

System Software

• System software enables a computer to operate.
• The main system software is the operating system which starts and controls the computer's operations.
• Common operating system tasks include setting up hardware, enabling other software, and managing documents.
• Common desktop OS: Windows, OS X, and Linux.
• During launch/start-up process, the operating system loads, does a diagnostic, and starts any programs defined to launch.

Application Software (Apps)

• Programs for specific tasks, including creating documents, managing inventory, scheduling, playing games, and more.
• Also, helps users write programs using programming languages like Python, C++, and Java.

Computer Users and Professionals

• Computer users utilize computers for task completion or information gathering. -Examples: Accountants, office workers, supervisors, or students.
• Computer professionals write programs, design systems, manage operations, create systems security, or repair hardware.

Computers to Fit Every Need

• Computers vary in size, ability, and price
• Six categories for computer classification:
  • Embedded computers
  • Mobile devices
  • Personal computers
  • Servers
  • Mainframe computers
  • Supercomputers

Embedded Computers

• Tiny computers built into products.
• Such as household appliances, vehicles etc.
• Used for product-specific tasks.

Trend: Apple Watch

• A smart watch and wearable example.
• Input: Using the crown (navigation/zooming) or touch, voice input
• Output: Display screen, alerts, and audio output
• Connects to a larger system such as an iPhone.

This quiz covers the basics of computer technology as outlined in Chapter 1. You will explore the core concepts of the Information Processing Cycle, including input, processing, output, and storage. Understand how computers use data and perform operations efficiently.